The 2018 X3 xDrive 30i is powered by a 2.0-liter twin turbocharged 4-cylinder engine rated at 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The new range-topping M40i performance model gets the latest version of BMW's 3.0-liter inline-six, which is making 355 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. BMW estimates that the xDrive 30i accelerates to 60 miles per hour in 6.0 seconds, while the M40i gets to 60 in just 4.6 seconds. Both engines pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddler shifters; the M40i adds a launch control function. The xDrive all-wheel drive system is also now more willing to get the back end out, with BMW increasing the rear-bias. The whole vehicle is a little more rounded as BMW continues to tone down the angles that were so prevalent in its design philosophy a few years ago.

So far BMW confirms there will be three main trim lines, including xLine, Luxury Line, and M Sport. Dynamic Damper Control is available on the 30i model and standard on the M40i. The new BMW X3 will also return a better fuel economy along with lesser carbon dioxide emissions, according to the company. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, cross traffic alert, and frontal collision mitigation.

It was a quarter century ago Sunday that BMW announced that it had picked SC for its first USA factory. Time to dust that JetSki off!

On the outside, BMW X3 fans will easily recognize the 2018 X3, but there are some significant updates, like the new front fascia with its "three-dimensional" kidney grille and fog lights featuring a hexagonal design. Inside, sport seats include power adjustable side bolsters, tri-zone automatic climate control and a 40/20/40 split folding rear seat.

Leg room for front and rear passengers is roughly the same between the new X3 and the outgoing model, and cargo space is up just 1 cubic foot over the previous model.

BMW's latest vehicles, including this X3, will be capable of sending one another messages about upcoming hazards with car-to-car communications.

BMW had teased their new model through a series of spy shots earlier but the recent leakedpictures show us the entire auto in all its details and glory.

As standard, BMW will sell the all-new 2018 X3 in the USA fitted with the xLine design, but those willing to spend more will be able to tick the "Luxury Package" box making its debut on the X3.